Health Q&A: Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Question - I have a problem with bad breath. I don’t smoke, drink only one cup of coffee per day and try not to eat any 'smelly’ foods such as garlic, but it doesn’t seem to help. If I can’t find the cause, could you suggest some natural ways of combating Bad Breath (Halitosis)?

There are many causes of bad breath or halitosis. Common problems are tooth or gum disease, an overly dry mouth or more rarely a medical condition such as diabetes or acid reflux. If you feel otherwise well, your symptoms may improve if you drink plenty of water, brush your teeth and tongue at least twice a day and chew a sugar-free gum to increase saliva production. Chewing on mint or parsley can help to disguise bad breath, too.


THE NUTRITIONAL THERAPIST Melanie Brown

Milk can often make breath smell, so try avoiding it for a while, or use lactose-free milk. After meals chew crunchy foods like plain nuts or crackers such as Ryvita to clean the mouth. Chewing parsley or orange peel also helps. Two useful supplements are chlorella (try Pukka) and bioacidophilus (try Bio-Kult). Flossing your teeth daily, using a tongue scraper in the morning and a chemical-free mouthwash like Tom’s of Maine can help.


THE NATUROPATH - Susan Curtis

Visit the dentist and find out if the problem is caused by teeth or gums. If gums, make a mouthwash by mixing tinctures of sage, myrrh and calendula. If your GP has ruled out any underlying problem, defective elimination is often the cause, in which case go on a gentle cleansing diet and take detoxing tinctures of dandelion and burdock three times daily for six weeks. Chew fennel or dill seeds after meals to stimulate digestion and sweeten breath.

Always consult a medical practitioner if your symptoms persist.

Discover how I cured my nasty Bad Breath here.

Source The Telegraph

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